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Ruben Amorim urged not to repeat Garnacho mistake as Sir Alex’s Mainoo warning resurfaces
Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images

Ruben Amorim is unlikely to forget how much Sir Alex Ferguson valued one key Manchester United player during his time at Old Trafford.

Amorim, now 40, became the sixth full-time manager appointed by United since Sir Alex Ferguson retired in 2013.

Ferguson, widely considered one of the greatest managers in football history, stepped down at the end of the 2012-13 season after 26 years in charge.

The Scotsman’s legacy includes all 13 of United’s Premier League titles and a memorable treble-winning season in 1998-99.

Sir Alex Ferguson’s view on Garnacho and Mainoo holds weight for Ruben Amorim

Alejandro Garnacho may have found himself out of favour under Ruben Amorim, but the Manchester United manager can’t afford to make the same mistake with Kobbie Mainoo.

Both Mainoo and Garnacho were once seen as long-term pillars at Old Trafford after making their way up through the youth ranks.


Photo by James Gill – Danehouse/Getty Images

But Garnacho eventually left for Chelsea in the summer following a breakdown in his relationship with Amorim late in the 2024-25 season.

Ferguson’s comments came when he was asked about Mainoo and Garnacho’s rise within the first team. His words carried significant weight regarding both players.

Speaking to TikTok star Jamal Niaz in 2024, Ferguson said: “It’s the foundation, isn’t it? They’re young. What they’re showing at the moment, the composure and confidence to play in the first team, and not be daunted by it.”

“In a way, it shows you the kind of courage they have. It’s a distinction in human beings, some have the will to be that [fearless at a young age].”

Ruben Amorim can’t treat Kobbie Mainoo the same way he did Alejandro Garnacho

Ruben Amorim’s falling out with Alejandro Garnacho stemmed from the winger’s outspoken comments following United’s 1-0 final defeat to Tottenham in May.

After those remarks, Garnacho’s days at Old Trafford were numbered, and he eventually made the switch to Stamford Bridge.

Kobbie Mainoo has also seen his influence reduced this season. Amorim has preferred using Bruno Fernandes in a deeper midfield role, limiting Mainoo’s opportunities.

Mainoo, now 20, considered leaving Old Trafford over the summer in search of more playing time after dropping out of the starting lineup.

He stayed on for this campaign and remains a favourite among fans. However, Amorim needs to carve out a clearer role for him within the squad if he wants to avoid another backlash.

If not, Ferguson may have warned about two players integral to the “heart and soul” of United who ended up leaving during Amorim’s tenure.

This article first appeared on HITC and was syndicated with permission.

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